Top Georgia TV Shows: Discover Hidden Southern Gems

Squidbillies, an American adult animated series that debuted on Adult Swim in 2004, offers a hilariously unique take on rural life through the misadventures of the Cuyler family—anthropomorphic Appalachian mud squids. Created by Jim Fortier and Dave Willis, the show masterfully blends crude humor with sharp social commentary, making it a standout in adult animation. With its distinctive animation style, a combination of traditional techniques and puppetry, the series has maintained its originality across 12 seasons. The characters, from the alcoholic and gun-loving father Early to the naive son Rusty, bring a distinct charm that keeps viewers hooked. The series also features an ever-evolving opening theme and musical contributions from notable artists like T-Pain and Neko Case. If youre looking for a satirical, boundary-pushing comedy that defies conventional settings, Squidbillies is a must-watch.

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Warm Springs is an HBO biographical drama that premiered on April 30, 2005, shining a light on Franklin D. Roosevelts personal battle with polio and how his experiences at the Warm Springs resort in Georgia influenced his presidency and New Deal policies. Directed by Joseph Sargent and written by Margaret Nagle, the film offers an authentic recreation of the era, capturing the emotional and physical struggles Roosevelt faced. Kenneth Branaghs portrayal of Roosevelt is both empathetic and powerful, while Cynthia Nixon delivers a moving performance as Eleanor Roosevelt. David Paymer also shines as Louis Howe, Roosevelts loyal advisor. Besides its riveting storytelling and exceptional acting, the film was shot at the actual Warm Springs Institute, adding a layer of historical authenticity. Warm Springs garnered critical acclaim, winning an Emmy for Outstanding Made for Television Movie. With a compelling score by Bruce Broughton, the film is both inspiring and educational, making it a must-watch for history enthusiasts and drama lovers alike.

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Critter Fixers: Country Vets, airing since 2020, immerses viewers in the compassionate and dynamic world of veterinary medicine. This reality series spotlights the incredible work of Dr. Vernon Hodges and Dr. Terrence Ferguson, lifelong friends who treat a remarkable 20,000 animals annually at Critter Fixer Veterinary Hospital. Produced by Georgia-based 10th Street Productions and CuriosityStream, the show offers a candid, behind-the-scenes look at both ordinary and extraordinary animal cases. With episodes featuring a mix of clinic visits, farm calls, and wildlife care, viewers are treated to an array of heartwarming moments and medical challenges. Set in Bonaire, Georgia, the series captures the rural charm and devotion of the veterinarians. Dr. Hodges and Dr. Fergusons expertise, combined with their engaging personalities, ensure every episode is an adventure worth watching. Dive into this captivating series and witness the dedication and love that drive these country vets.

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Taken At Birth is an engrossing and emotional TV series that delves into a harrowing chapter of American history. Airing on TLC in 2019, the series exposes the grim secrets of a small hospital in Albany, Georgia, where countless infants were stolen from their birth mothers between the 1950s and 1970s. Spearheaded by investigator Jane Blasio—herself one of the sold babies—alongside TV host Chris Jacobs and actress Lisa Joyner, the show meticulously uncovers the horrific actions of Dr. Thomas J. Hicks, who illegally sold hundreds of infants. This series is a powerful blend of investigative journalism and heartfelt storytelling, as it strives to reunite stolen children with their biological families. The compelling narratives, coupled with a haunting soundtrack, make for an unforgettable viewing experience that highlights resilience and the relentless pursuit of truth and justice.

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7 Little Johnstons offers viewers a heartwarming and captivating glimpse into the lives of a unique family, making it a must-watch series. As the largest known family of achondroplastic dwarfs, the Johnstons navigate everyday challenges and celebrate lifes joys with infectious positivity and resilience. The show is produced by Discovery Studios, with Amber and Trent Johnston also serving as executive producers, ensuring genuine family experiences are captured. From Trent’s larger-than-life personality and Amber’s steady guidance to the children’s charming antics, each family member brings a compelling dynamic that keeps audiences engaged. Beyond the typical family dramas, the series highlights significant moments like holidays, health scares, and the day-to-day triumphs of rural living in Georgia. Fans of reality TV will appreciate the authentic portrayal of the Johnstons' resourcefulness and tight-knit bond. Inspirational quotes from Amber and Trent underline the family's empowering message: Size doesn’t mean anything; it’s your heart that counts. Don't miss their journey of determination and love.

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Southern Rites is a compelling 2015 HBO documentary directed by Gillian Laub that delves into the deep-seated racial tensions and segregation in Montgomery County, Georgia. By documenting the countys first-ever integrated senior prom, the aftermath of a local school shooting, and a subsequent murder trial, the film offers a raw and timely exploration of race relations in the United States. Laubs initial project for the New York Times Magazine grew into a decade-long endeavor, making her an active participant in the push for change. The score by T. Griffin wonderfully fuses traditional southern music with modern elements, enhancing the films emotional depth. Featuring impactful voices like school principal Osha Gray Davidson and local resident Norma Jean Brown, the documentary underscores the courage needed for social change. Southern Rites is a poignant reminder of ongoing struggles against segregation and racism, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding Americas racial divide.

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A Christmas Open House is a captivating holiday film that will warm your heart and rekindle the magic of the festive season. This 2022 release tells the enchanting tale of a professional home stager who returns to her charming hometown in Georgia to sell her childhood home. Along this emotional journey, she reconnects with her high school crush, kindling a fresh spark of romance amid the pressures of Christmas. Beautifully shot against a backdrop of cozy, vintage architecture, the film invokes nostalgia and the joy of returning home. The performances are stellar, especially the leads, whose chemistry and growth elevate the story, making it relatable and touching. The movie's soundtrack beautifully blends traditional and modern Christmas music, enhancing the festive spirit. For anyone who cherishes holiday romances filled with love, family, and the wonder of Christmas, A Christmas Open House is a must-watch.

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First and Last is a captivating docuseries that premiered in 2018, offering an intimate and authentic look at significant life transitions. Each episode delves deeply into the emotions, challenges, and growth experienced by individuals as they navigate pivotal moments. Produced by a dedicated team of documentary filmmakers, the series is renowned for its empathetic and respectful portrayal of real people, rather than actors. With extensive research and participant selection, the filmmakers ensure a genuine depiction of personal stories. Critically acclaimed for its honest representation of change and personal growth, First and Last resonates universally with viewers. The series not only highlights the raw and transformative nature of these life events but also explores themes of change and the shared human experience. For anyone interested in heartfelt storytelling and profound human experiences, First and Last is a must-watch, providing deep insights into the universal journey of life transitions.

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Titletown High, available on Netflix, offers a riveting look into Valdosta High Schools revered football program as it navigates the pressures of contemporary high school life. This 2021 reality series, produced by Jason Sciavicco, captures the essence of sports, education, and social issues, providing a profound glimpse into American high school culture. The show features real-life characters like quarterback Grayson Leavy, the perseverant Amari Jones, the underdog Jake Garcia, and empathetic yet strict Coach Rodney Baker – making it a gripping watch. With its compelling storytelling and intimate portrayal, the series highlights the triumphs and tribulations faced by the players, making viewers deeply invest in their journey. Enriched with motivating quotes and a powerful soundtrack featuring hits like We Ready by Archie Eversole, Titletown High is perfect for sports enthusiasts and those interested in the realities behind high school football. Dive into the intense world of Valdosta football and experience the highs and lows of championship aspirations.

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Let It Shine (2012) is a captivating Disney Channel Original Movie that delves into themes of music, self-expression, and staying true to ones values. The compelling story follows Cyrus, a talented yet shy musician who pens rap songs for his confident friend Kris. When pop singer Roxie mistakenly believes Kris is the songwriter, a tangled web of emotions and misunderstandings ensues, reminiscent of the classic Cyrano de Bergerac tale. Directed by Paul Hoen and featuring standout performances by Tyler James Williams, Trevor Jackson, and Coco Jones, the film skillfully combines heartwarming moments with dynamic musical performances. Notably, Tyler James Williams learned to rap for his role, adding authenticity to the films vibrant soundtrack, which includes hit songs like Dont Run Away and Let It Shine. Filmed in picturesque locations in Georgia, Let It Shine offers an engaging narrative and uplifting music, making it a must-watch for audiences of all ages.

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Welcome to Plathville is an intriguing reality TV series that offers viewers a rare glimpse into the lives of the Plath family, who lead an unconventional, conservative lifestyle on a rural farm in Georgia. Premiering on TLC in 2019, the show features the unique dynamics between Kim and Barry Plath, their nine children, and the outside world. Raised with strict values and minimal modern conveniences, the Plath children face significant culture shocks as they seek individual freedoms and new experiences. This documentarian-style series captivates audiences with its genuine moments and the familys relatable struggles between tradition and change. Whether youre interested in family dynamics, conservative vs. modern life, or simply compelling reality TV, Welcome to Plathville is a must-watch for its honest portrayal of a family navigating a rapidly changing world.

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Superfly (2018), directed by Director X, is a modern and stylish crime thriller that reimagines the 1972 blaxploitation classic Super Fly. The film follows Youngblood Priest, a drug dealer aiming to make one last big deal before leaving the perilous world of crime. Shot in Atlanta, Georgia, the movie dazzles with its high-fashion production and gripping portrayal of a dangerous underworld. Trevor Jackson’s performance as Priest delivers the complexity of a man torn between his criminal ties and the desire for a new life. The film also stars Jason Mitchell as Eddie, adding raw emotion, and Michael Kenneth Williams as Scatter, who brings profound depth to Priest's mentor. With music from Josh Atchley and Future, the dynamic hip hop and soul soundtrack pays homage to the original film. This compelling mix of intense action, strong performances, and riveting music makes Superfly a must-watch for fans of crime dramas and stylish cinematography.

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PIECES OF HER (2022) is a captivating drama series that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. Premiering in 2022, the show explores the dark secrets and intricate complexities of human nature through a thrilling narrative. When a young womans life is turned upside down by a violent incident, she dives into her estranged mothers mysterious past, uncovering dangerous secrets that threaten her own safety. Adapted from Karin Slaughter’s gripping novel, the series boasts stellar performances by Toni Collette as Laura Oliver and Bella Heathcote as her daughter, Andy. Filmed on various intriguing locations and featuring a dynamic soundtrack, PIECES OF HER received critical acclaim for its suspenseful storyline and exceptional cast. With unpredictable twists and a plot that unravels the layers of deception, it is a must-watch for fans of thrillers that delve deep into the human psyche.

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Southern Rites (HBO) is a gripping 2015 documentary that delves into the heart of Americas enduring racial tensions by exploring Montgomery County, Georgia. Directed by Gillian Laub and executive produced by John Legend, this film provides an intimate look at a historically segregated town where racial divisions manifest starkly in the form of separate high school proms. Highlighting efforts to challenge these entrenched traditions, Southern Rites delivers a poignant, emotional journey that uncovers the deep-seated societal norms and beliefs that persist in modern America. With Laub's decade-long commitment beginning as a photography project for the New York Times, the documentary transforms into a profound narrative urging viewers to engage in crucial conversations about race and segregation. Enhanced by Joel Goodman's evocative soundtrack, Southern Rites is a powerful call to recognize and confront the complexities of racism, making it essential viewing for anyone seeking to understand and contribute to societal change.

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Critter Fixers: Country Vets, premiering in 2020, immerses viewers in the fascinating world of veterinary medicine. Centered around the charismatic Dr. Hodges and Dr. Ferguson, lifelong friends managing a bustling rural Georgia clinic, this Nat Geo Wild series captivates with its wide array of animal patients—from pets and livestock to exotic creatures. Produced by Hit + Run, the show provides an authentic glimpse behind the scenes, highlighting the doctors dedication to superior vet care in their community. With their engaging personalities, the vets share invaluable animal care knowledge while tackling diverse medical cases. The soothing, upbeat soundtrack enhances the Southern charm, making each episode a heartwarming experience. Unique trivia, such as their friendship since the second grade, and memorable quotes deepen the connection to these passionate vets. Critter Fixers is a must-watch for animal lovers seeking an inspirational, educational, and entertaining journey with genuine, hardworking heroes.

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Welcome to Plathville is a captivating American reality TV series that premiered on TLC in 2019. It delves into the intriguing lives of the Plath family, residing on a 55-acre rural Georgia farm with no television or internet. The series captures the conservative and sheltered upbringing provided by parents Kim and Barry Plath to their nine children. Audiences are drawn to the compelling family dynamics as the children navigate the pressures and attractions of the outside world, leading to captivating moments of conflict and self-discovery. Viewers will be fascinated by Moriahs rebellious spirit, Ethans struggle with family values, and the familys unique lifestyle. Produced by TLC, known for spotlighting extraordinary families, Welcome to Plathville offers a genuine look at the Plath familys strict belief system and their attempts to adhere to these values amidst modern temptations. The heartfelt quotes, interesting trivia, and original music by the Plath family add enriching layers to the series, making it a must-watch for those intrigued by family dynamics and cultural clashes.

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